The National Football League will feature the phrases “Choose Love” and “It Takes All of Us” on the end zones at Caesars Superdome in New Orleans for Sunday’s Super Bowl LIX between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles.
The decision comes after a tumultuous year marked by wildfires, terrorism, and plane crashes across the US. NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy said that “Choose Love” is an appropriate message as the country needs unity and love right now.
This marks the first time since 2021 that the phrase “End Racism” will not be used on the end zones at a Super Bowl. Last season’s game featured this phrase, while other teams have used phrases like “Stop Hate” or “Vote” on their home fields.
The NFL began its social justice initiative in 2020 and has continued to promote diversity and inclusion efforts. Commissioner Roger Goodell emphasized that these initiatives are essential for attracting top talent to the league.
The Super Bowl is also expected to feature President Donald Trump, who will become the first sitting US president to attend a Super Bowl. The NFL stated that the stencil messages were not chosen in relation to Trump’s attendance. Grammy Award-winning artist Ledisi will perform “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” known as the Black national anthem, before the game.
The league is standing firm on its diversity efforts despite criticism from some who are rolling back their own DEI programs. Commissioner Goodell said that these initiatives have strengthened the NFL and attracted top talent to the league.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/02/04/sport/super-bowl-choose-love-end-racism-spt/index.html